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The Irish dairy industry is in a time of significant change, following the abolition of EU milk quotas on March 31, 2015. This change brings significant challenges and opportunities for young, highly skilled graduates from the Dairy Business programme.
This degree is designed to equip future leaders of the dairy industry with the scientific, technical and business skills needed to cope with this business and enterprise expansion.
For more information regarding this course, please click School of Agriculture and Food Science
First & Second Year
You start with a range of business, science, mathematics and technology- related modules. You then build on this scientific base by taking a range of modules in relevant applied sciences, as well as business and communications- related modules.
Third & Fourth Year
In June of second year, you’ll undertake technical management of a dairy farm at Teagasc, Kildalton Agricultural College. This is followed by Professional Work Experience (PWE) placement in the dairy industry from July to December.
For trimester two of third year, you study at Teagasc, Moorepark in areas including:
- Grassland Management & Nutrition
- Dairy Systems
- Applied Breeding & Fertility
- Herd Health
- Dairy Business Project.
In fourth year, you’ll consolidate your understanding of earlier modules and pursue a range of business and science modules.
Students spend an average of 40 hours a week, including: lectures and tutorials; laboratory and practical workshops; and independent study.
Assessment varies but involves a combination of projects, continuous assessment and end-of-trimester examinations. Assessment of PWE involves monthly reports, a final report and an interview, upon completion.
In addition to the highly skilled role of dairy farm management, opportunities exist in a wide variety of areas including:
- Research
- Animal feed industry
- Banking
- Teaching
- Consultancy
Research opportunities to Master’s and PhD level are available.
PWE takes place between July and December (first trimester, third year) and offers you the opportunity to visit New Zealand at the busiest time of the dairy farming calendar.